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Spaghetti with Classic Italian Meatballs
This is one of those dishes that never goes out of style. Spaghetti with classic Italian meatballs feels like home—warm, familiar, and deeply comforting. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table without being asked, pulled in by the smell of garlic and tomatoes gently simmering on the stove.
The meatballs are tender and flavorful, the marinara is rich and cozy, and the spaghetti ties it all together into a bowl of pure comfort. Whether it’s a relaxed weekend dinner or a simple weeknight meal, this recipe always delivers that satisfying, slow-simmered feeling we all crave.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
1/2 lb ground beef
1/2 lb ground pork
1/3 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Olive oil, for frying
For the Marinara Sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Pasta
12 oz spaghetti
Salt, for pasta water
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
1) Make the meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano.
Mix gently until just combined—overmixing can make them tough.
Roll into 1-inch meatballs and set aside.
2) Brown the meatballs
Heat a thin layer of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add the meatballs in batches and cook for 5–6 minutes, turning to brown all sides.
Transfer to a plate and set aside.
3) Start the sauce
In the same pan, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion for 3–4 minutes, until soft and lightly golden.
Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, just until fragrant.
4) Build the marinara
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
Let the sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen.
5) Simmer the meatballs
Carefully add the browned meatballs to the sauce.
Cover and simmer on low heat for 20–25 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce thickens.
6) Cook the spaghetti
While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the spaghetti until al dente, then drain.
7) Assemble and serve
Twirl the spaghetti onto plates or into bowls.
Spoon over plenty of marinara and top with meatballs.
Finish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan, if desired.
Presentation
Twirl the pasta neatly for that classic Italian look.
Center the meatballs on top so they stand out.
Fresh herbs matter: parsley adds color and a light, fresh note.
Serve family-style for an inviting, cozy table.
Conclusion
Spaghetti with classic Italian meatballs is comfort food at its finest—simple, hearty, and always satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe you come back to again and again, one that fills the kitchen with warmth and the table with smiles.
If you’re craving a timeless meal that feels both cozy and familiar, this is the perfect one to make. Slow down, enjoy the process, and savor every comforting bite.
